I’m currently reading Beyond Homelessness: Christian Faith in a Culture of Displacement by Steven Bouma-Prediger and Brian J. Walsh, and it’s reshaping the way I think about homelessness. The authors challenge a common assumption—that homelessness is only about the lack of a roof overhead. They explore a much deeper reality: that someone can live in a beautiful house, have a great job, a family, and still experience homelessness.
Because homelessness, they argue, is more than being unhoused. It’s a state of disconnection—from self, from others, from creation, and from God.
The more I reflect on this idea, the more I see how aligned it is with what we are building at Community Forever Village. Our work goes beyond housing. What we’re creating isn’t just shelter—it’s home. It’s not about simply placing someone in a unit and handing them keys. It’s about building a place where belonging can take root.
As Bouma-Prediger and Walsh write,
“Houses can be bought or rented on the market; homes can be neither bought nor sold.”
“Home is fundamentally a place of connection—of relationships that are life-giving and foundational.”
That’s exactly why CFV is being built the way it is. We are designing a community that brings together neighbors (our formerly homeless residents) and volunteers through shared meals, meaningful work, gardening, and even opportunities to experience life as it was 150 years ago on a working farm. These aren’t just programs—they’re bridges. They foster relationship, invite conversation, and create shared purpose.
We believe that housing in isolation is not enough. We believe in housing with community—a nurturing environment where everyone has the opportunity to heal, grow, and flourish with dignity.
And we believe that you—yes, you—have something to offer in building that kind of home.
Whether it’s your story, your skills, or simply your time, there will be countless opportunities for you to connect with and support your neighbors at CFV. Together, we can create a place where no one feels forgotten, and everyone belongs.
Come be part of something more than a housing solution. Help us build a home.
Learn how you can get involved at communityforever.org.
